Nagpur: Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Friday urged distressed farmers in the state not to harbour thoughts of suicide.

Marathwada and Vidarbha regions of the state are reeling under drought-like situation. The two regions have witnessed several farmer suicide cases in the recent months.

"Our government stands firmly behind the farmers and we are ready to help farmers in every way we can. I appeal to the farmers who are facing drought not to give up your lives. We will ensure we show a new way to the farmers," Fadnavis told reporters here.

Yesterday the BJP-Shiv Sena government had announced a Rs 7,000-crore package for farmers in Vidarbha and Marathwada.